(ALLENTOWN, PA) – The Allentown Rescue Mission has seen first-hand the negative effects that limited access to medical care has on the homeless population. To help its clients, the Mission not only operates the on-site DeSales Free Medical Clinic, but also offers monetary assistance for critical, or emergency medical needs not covered by insurance through a bequest donated to the Mission by Dr. Edward Gianforte.

Most men who enter the Emergency Shelter qualify for Medicaid, a jointly funded program through the federal and state governments to provide health and long-term care to low-income families and individuals, but a significant number of men need help applying for and accessing the insurance. Staff at the Allentown Rescue Mission work with the men to get them insurance coverage, ensure they are seen by the DeSales Free Medical Clinic, and assist them with out-of-pocket medical expenses.

The Gianforte Grant has covered out-of-pocket expenses for eye exams, eyeglasses, dental work, prescription orthopedic shoes, prescription medications, and other medically necessary items for many clients. Aaron, a client employed by the Clean Team Workforce, recently benefited from the grant.

“When I came to the Mission, I had no glasses and had been using the same pair of contacts for months. I also had not been to the dentist in over 4 years. But thanks to the Grant and God’s grace, I now have glasses and my dental needs have been addressed. Because of this gracious gift, I am now able to focus on my recovery and transformation back into a complete man, father, and son,” expressed Aaron.

About Dr. Edward Gianforte: 

Dr. Gianforte earned graduate degrees in medical microbiology and pathogenesis and went on to become a board-certified radiologist. He served the needy in Allentown at the Allentown Veteran Clinic and left his estate to organizations that help the less fortunate. Dr. Gianforte earmarked money given to the Allentown Rescue Mission to increase and improve medical care provided to the underprivileged.

 

The Allentown Rescue Mission, a 501c3, 123 bed non-profit homeless shelter has been providing shelter for homeless men since 1900. In addition to emergency shelter services (365 days a year), the Allentown Rescue Mission offers a residential life skills program, and transitional employment on the Clean Team Workforce that’s available for hire to the community. The Clean Team Workforce pays the men above PA state minimum wage– helping them save a nest egg to transition back into the community. In a typical year, the Allentown Rescue Mission provides shelter services for over 946 men per year, and serves over 42,000 meals a year to men in need.

To refer someone to the Allentown Rescue Mission for services or to learn ways you can help make a difference please visit www.allentownrescuemission.org

 

 
Information provided to TVL by:
Stefanie Appel
Community Relations
Allentown Rescue Mission
www.allentownrescuemission.org
 

 

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